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Barbet Dog Breed

About the Barbet

The Barbet (pronounced bar-bay) is an ancient breed known for its curly coat and affable disposition. Hailing from France, this water dog is easily recognized by its distinctive beard (barbe in French) from which the breed derives its name. While not as widely known in the United States as some other hunting breeds, the Barbet has a storied history. For centuries, it served as a loyal companion by retrieving waterfowl before the invention of the firing arm. The breed’s gentle and playful nature, combined with its intelligence and adaptability, make it a delightful family companion today and an engaging partner in a variety of activities.

AKC Group

AKC Group

Sporting

Dog Breed Height

Height

19 – 24.5 Inches

Dog Breed Weight

Weight

35 – 65 Pounds

Dog Breed Lifespan

Lifespan

12 – 14 Years

Highlights

Country of Origin France
Bred For Flushing & Retrieving Waterfowl, Companionship
Known For Rustic Appearance, Profuse Coat, Cheerfulness, Intelligence
Popularity Low
Temperament Friendly, Bright, Sweet-Natured
Activities Hunting, Running, Swimming, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports

History of the Barbet

The Barbet’s history is as rich and distinctive as is the breed’s curly coat. This water dog’s roots can be traced back many centuries, with depictions of similar canines appearing in artwork from the 14th century. However, the Barbet, as it is known today has its origins firmly fixed in present-day France.

Initially, the Barbet was a utilitarian dog, prized for its prowess as a waterfowl retriever. French hunters relied on the rough water dog to fetch birds from  swampland and other marshy environments. Its water-resistant, curly coat, combined with its webbed feet, made the Barbet particularly adept for such tasks.

The name Barbet is believed to be derived from the French term barbe, meaning “beard,” a nod to the breed’s characteristic beard-like facial hair. The breed has also played a pivotal role in the development of several other breeds. The Poodle, in particular, owes a significant degree of its lineage to the Barbet.

However, despite its historical significance and early development, the breed has faced the threat of extinction. Following the two World Wars, the breed’s numbers were decimated. Recognizing the breed’s cultural significance and its use in the development of so many other water-loving breeds, dedicated enthusiasts undertook efforts to revive and preserve it.

The modern Barbet remains true to its historical roots, with many of its inherent characteristics, such as its love for water and its affable nature, remaining unchanged. The breed has garnered recognition from various kennel organizations and registries around the world, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 2020.

From its beginnings as a trusted hunting partner to its present-day role as a beloved family companion, the breed has stood the test of time, showcasing its resilience, adaptability, and unwavering charm.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

Adult Barbets typically stand between 19 and 24.5 inches tall at the withers.

Mature Barbets generally weigh from 35 to 65 pounds, proportionate to the individual dog’s height.

Proportion & Substance

A black Barbet standing in the grass, looking alert and ready.

The Barbet’s physique exudes both strength and elegance. A robust frame, with solid bone and a well-muscled body, appears slightly rectangular in shape. This proportion emphasizes the breed’s historical role as a strong and persistent water dog. Together with the breed’s substantial head, sweeping tail, and graceful movement, the Barbet’s silhouette is fundamental to its usefulness, whether retrieving fallen game or playfully bounding through the yard.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

Texture: The dense and curly texture of the Barbet’s coat is a defining breed characteristic. The profuse coat, which sports a distinctive beard, is a reminder of the breed’s centuries-old usefulness as a rough water dog. The hair’s unique texture provides protection from the elements and underscores the breed’s ability to perform well in aquatic environments.

Barbet Colors

Standard Color
Black ee
Brown ee
Fawn ee
Fawn ee
Gray ee
White ee

Barbet Markings

Standard Marking
White Markings ee
Gray Markings ee
Black Markings ee
Brown Markings ee
Fawn Markings ee

A Note About Color: The Barbet may be found in all shades of black, gray, brown, and fawn; with or without white markings. White dogs with colored markings, called pied, are as equally acceptable as the solid-colored dogs.

Head

A photo of Barbet's head.

  • Skull: The skull is broad and slightly convex, giving the head a well-defined and sturdy appearance. The stop is moderate, providing a smooth transition from the skull to the muzzle.
  • Expression: One of the breed’s most endearing qualities is its warm and inviting expression, exuding both intelligence and kindness. This is further accentuated by the tufts of hair that usually fall over the eyes.
  • Eyes: Set rather well apart, the eyes are round and dark, harmoniously blending with the coat’s color. They radiate a lively and attentive look.
  • Ears: The ears are set at eye level and hang flat, framing the face. Their length reaches halfway down the muzzle, and they’re covered with long, dense hair, often with a wavy appearance.
  • Muzzle: The muzzle is strong and broad; square but tapering slightly towards the nose. It is of equal length to the skull, providing a balanced appearance to the head. The planes of the head and muzzle are nearly parallel.
  • Nose: The breed’s nose is broad, with well-open nostrils. Its color complements that of the coat, usually black or brown depending on the dog’s primary coat color and shade.
  • Bite: The Barbet boasts teeth that are large and strong teeth, meeting in a scissors bite. This bite ensures a strong grip, vital for the breed’s role as a waterfowl retriever.

Tail

The Barbet’s tail is an extension of both its topline and its character, serving both a functional and an expressive role. Strong at its base, the tail tapers gradually towards the tip. At rest, it hangs down, reaching the hocks or slightly below. During moments of alertness or excitement, the tail may be carried slightly raised, but it rarely curls over the back. The breed’s signature tail emphasizes its water dog lineage, acting as a rudder in fast-running streams and still bodies of water.

The Barbet – What to Consider?

As a breed renowned for its amiable nature and storied past as a waterfowl retriever, the Barbet flourishes when provided with both physical activity and emotional connections. Whether interest in the breed stems from a desire for a loyal companion, a working partner, or an affable show dog, understanding its many unique characteristics will all but assure a mutually fulfilling connection between the Barbet and its family members.

Home Life

Interaction With Family

The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate

Good With Other Dogs

The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs

Good With Young Children

The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children

Upkeep

Amount Of Shedding

The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High

Frequency Of Grooming

The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily

Amount Of Drooling

The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High

Coat Type

smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly

Coat Length

short
medium
long

Behavior

Personality

Trainability Level

The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager

Barking Level

The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal

Energy Level

The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody

Need For Mental Stimulation

The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction

Barbet Health

Two Barbet dogs standing in a pond.

Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Barbet ranges between 12 and 14 years. With optimal care and an active lifestyle, some individuals can even surpass this age range.

Potential Health Risks

While the Barbet is generally considered a healthy breed, like any breed or mixed-breed dog, it can be susceptible to certain health risks. Awareness of these potential issues is key to proactive care and early detection.

  • Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition where a shallow hip socket allows the femoral head to slip out of joint. Dogs may show pain or lameness in one or both rear legs.
  • Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia but affecting the front legs, this disease is a developmental anomaly of the elbow joint, typically leading to arthritis and pain.
  • Eyesight Issues: Conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) can affect the breed. Regular eye exams are recommended.
  • Hypothyroidism: This disorder of the thyroid gland can lead to obesity, lethargy, and skin conditions. It is treatable with medication.
  • Ear Infections: Given the breed’s hanging ears clothed in dense hair, the ears can be prone to infections. Regular cleaning, and monitoring for signs of discomfort, can mitigate this risk.
  • Allergies: Some Barbets can develop skin allergies. It’s essential, therefore, to monitor signs of excessive itching or skin irritations.

Barbet Personality

The Barbet, with its spirited and sensitive nature, exudes warmth, intelligence, and enthusiasm. This breed forms strong bonds with family members and tends to mirror their emotions. Barbets are inherently social creatures, so prolonged isolation doesn’t sit well with them and can sometimes lead to separation anxiety. Their friendly and playful approach to life means they typically enjoy the company of people and other dogs, especially if they’ve been acquainted with them from a young age. Children often find a gentle and patient friend in the Barbet, making the breed a good choice as a family companion. With the right socialization, these dogs will typically extend warm greetings to strangers; however, their inherent loyalty may lead them to approach unfamiliar situations and new people with an appropriate amount of caution. This sensitivity also means the Barbet responds best to gentle training methods that are anchored in encouragement and praise.

Barbet Feeding & Nutrition

Concept of organic pet food on orange background

As a breed with a rich heritage as a water dog, the Barbet requires a balanced diet to fuel its energy. When considering what to feed a puppy, it’s vital to ensure the food supports the growth phase. A high-quality puppy formula is needed, one that’s rich in essential nutrients, proteins, and fats. Transitioning to adult food usually takes place between 12 to 15 months. The amount of food required can vary based on factors such as age, metabolism, and activity level. On average, the mature Barbet may consume between 2 to 3 cups of quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with the dog’s breeder and veterinarian for advice on adjusting portion sizes. Barbets, like all breeds, can be susceptible to obesity if overfed. Monitoring weight gain and ensuring adequate exercise is provided can help with maintaining a healthy weight. Treats, while useful for training, should only be given in moderation.

Barbet Training

Training a Barbet can be a fulfilling experience, given the breed’s innate intelligence and desire to please. While these dogs can be a relatively good choice for novice dog owners, they thrive best when positive reinforcement techniques are used. This breed is not one to react positively to harsh or punitive training methods. Their sensitive nature responds well to praise, treats, and affection, and since they are quick learners, they pick up new commands and tricks with relative ease. However, this intelligence means they can sometimes be a tad stubborn or independent-minded. Consistency is key with training, including managing the breed’s sometimes vocal nature. While not incessantly loud, the Barbet can express itself through vocalizations, especially when it spots something unusual and wants to alert its owner. Early socialization and training a “quiet” command can be helpful.

Barbet Exercise

Barbet jumping over an obstacle in Agility trials

The Barbet’s usefulness as an active water dog has endowed it with a natural zest for physical activity. It’s therefore important to make sure the dog receives adequate exercise to promote its physical and mental well-being.

Exercise Expectations

Energy Level Moderate to High
Exercise Requirements 2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Weekly Swimming, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation

Endowed with a moderate-to-high energy level, the Barbet thrives on daily exercise. These dogs will happily participate in most any activity, but brisk walks, games of fetch, and swimming are especially beneficial. The breed’s intensity, while not overwhelming, can sometimes surprise new owners. It’s important, therefore, to incorporate some rigorous exercise each day to help the Barbet expend all of its innate energy. Playfulness is also a defining characteristic of the breed. Whether chasing after a ball, engaging in interactive dog toys, or simply romping around in the yard, these dogs thrive on having fun. Prolonged play sessions, interspersed with short bursts of high-level activity, are excellent for helping a Barbet stay healthy and fit. And given the breed’s intelligent and social nature, regular play sessions can also satisfy the need for mental stimulation and social interaction.

Barbet Grooming

The Barbet boasts a distinctive curly coat that’s both dense and water-resistant, a testament to the breed’s water dog heritage. Grooming is essential, not only for aesthetics but also for the dog’s health and comfort.

Grooming Expectations

Coat Type Black, Brown, Gray and White
Grooming Requirements Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing

The texture of a Barbet’s coat can vary. Some dogs have rather loose curls while others possess tighter ringlets. In all cases, regular brushing, at least weekly, is necessary to prevent mats and tangles from forming. Using a pin brush or a slicker brush, combined with a metal comb for the finer areas, can yield the best results. This will ensure the coat remains in optimal condi